Tuesday, 18 August 2015

Chapel-en-le-Frith's Bus Station

The Chapel-en-le-Frith factory of Ferodo opened in
1902,The Company took its name from
the founder Herbert Frood who in 1897 had used his garden shed in Combs to
experiment in brake materials. The first factory opened in Gorton in 1901 but
trade quickly expanded and the Sovereign and Howden Mills in Chapel were rented. As
Ferodo grew it employed large numbers of people, many of whom travelled from
neighbouring towns and villages. Most of these workers travelled by bus. In
1931 special works services were provided by the North Western bus company as
the regular bus services could no longer cope with demand. A works bus station
was built in 1937. Itwas only in use
for 90 minutes each day, at the start and end of each working shift. In 1954, a
new, larger bus station was built, capable of handling 24 buses at a time.In the morning peak,28 vehicles were needed with services from
as far afield as Stockport, Buxton, Hayfield and many other localities.There were 50 departures each day with the
peak period being at 5.30 pm when 25 buses left within a 10 minute period
carrying1100 passengers.

The photos are from the archives of “Commercial Motor”

A North Western Bristol passes the Old Hall Inn at Whitehough en route for Horwich End.

About The Society

We research and record Furness Vale's past. An archive of documents, maps and photographs is maintained by Chairman George Tomlinson, a product of many years research. We hold meetings on the first Tuesday of each month except July and August. A guest speaker usually presents an illustrated talk of local or regional interest. Membership is available at an annual fee of £5.
For further information contact David Easton 01663 744080 furnesshistory@gmail.com